MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Neijiang

How to Get to Neijiang

Neijiang Sichuan, China Travel Guide

Air Travel to Neijiang

Main Airports

Neijiang is served by two major international airports, both within a 150 km radius. These hubs offer extensive domestic and international connections, making regional access simple.

Major Hubs

  • Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU): ~150 km NW.
  • Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG): ~120 km E.
  • Both airports have direct flights from major global cities.

Airline & Flight Details

Both CTU and CKG serve numerous domestic and international routes with major Chinese airlines. Direct flights from global hubs across Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia are available, offering convenient regional entry.

Connecting Flights

  • Domestic flights by Air China, China Southern, etc. From CTU/CKG.
  • Flight prices increase during Lunar New Year, Foundation Day, Summer holidays.
  • Consider Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.

Airport Services

CTU and CKG offer duty-free shops, diverse dining, lounges, and currency exchange.

CTU to Neijiang

High-speed train (metro transfer to Chengdu East, then ~1hr train) or direct long-distance bus (~2-3hrs).

CKG to Neijiang

High-speed train (metro to Chongqing North, then ~40-50min train) or direct long-distance bus (~1.5-2.5hrs).

Transfer Options Simplified

From Chengdu CTU

  • Metro Line 10 to Taipingyuan, then Line 3 to Chengdu East Railway Station.
  • High-speed train from Chengdu East to Neijiang North (~1 hour).
  • Direct long-distance buses from CTU airport bus station (~2-3 hours).
  • Book train tickets in advance via Trip.com or 12306.cn.

From Chongqing CKG

  • Chongqing Metro Line 10 directly from CKG to Chongqing North Railway Station.
  • High-speed train from Chongqing North to Neijiang North (~40-50 minutes).
  • Direct long-distance buses from CKG airport bus station (~1.5-2.5 hours).
  • Prior reservation for high-speed trains is strongly advised.

Airport Facilities

Shopping & Dining

Duty-free shops, various stores, and a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and fast-food options are available.

Comfort & Services

Airline lounges and independent pay-per-use lounges. Currency exchange at banks and counters.

Ground Transport

Excellent connections to city centers via metro, airport buses, and taxis. Car rental with drivers can be arranged.

Land Travel

Train Services

Neijiang has a significant railway hub. Neijiang North Railway Station on the Chengdu-Chongqing High-Speed Railway offers frequent, fast connections to Chengdu (~1 hr) and Chongqing (~40-50 min). Conventional rail at Neijiang Railway Station offers slower, less expensive options.

Booking Trains

  • Purchase tickets at stations (passport required).
  • Use official 12306.cn (Chinese ID/foreign passport needed).
  • Third-party agencies like Trip.com are convenient.

Long-Distance Buses

Neijiang Central Bus Station has wide-ranging ways to cities and towns across Sichuan and Chongqing. Buses are an economical but slower choice compared to trains, suitable for shorter distances or places not served by high-speed rail.

Bus Travel Notes

  • Good road conditions generally, but urban traffic is often heavy.
  • Different local and provincial bus companies operate routes.
  • Main station: Neijiang Central Bus Station (内江汽车站).

Self-Driving Not Advised

Foreigners generally cannot legally drive in China with an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a foreign driver's license alone. A valid Chinese driver's you need a license, which is hard for short-term visitors to acquire.

Alternative

  • Rent a car with a local driver through tour operators or hotels.
  • This option provides flexibility without legal hurdles.
  • IDP is not recognized for operating a vehicle.

Sea/River Travel Not Applicable

Neijiang is an inland city. Major river or sea arrivals are not applicable for inter-city passenger transport. The Tuojiang River allows for smaller vessels, but not major passenger services.

River Transport Status

  • No ferry services or cruise ports for inter-city travel.
  • Tuojiang River guidance for small vessels only.
  • Local sightseeing boats may appear during festivals.

Departure Reminders

  • International Flights (CTU/CKG): Arrive 3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic Flights (CTU/CKG): Get THERE two hours before departure.
  • Train Departures (Neijiang North): Arrive 30-60 minutes before departure.
  • No specific exit fees or taxes beyond ticket price.
  • Airport facilities: lounges, dining, shopping (duty-free for international).
  • Train station facilities: waiting rooms, dining, small shops.

Airport Facilities

Chengdu Shuangliu CTU

As the busiest airport in The western part of China, CTU offers comprehensive facilities. These include numerous shopping options, a wide variety of restaurants, comfortable lounges, and various services for traveler convenience.

Features

  • Free Wi-Fi access throughout terminals.
  • Extensive dining options from local to international cuisine.
  • On-site hotels and nearby accommodations.

Chongqing Jiangbei CKG

CKG also is a major aviation hub in Southwest China, equipped with modern amenities. Travelers will find similar provisions like shopping, eateries, and lounges, leading to a comfortable transit or waiting period.

Features

  • Currency exchange and ATM services.
  • Duty-free shops and various retail outlets.
  • Efficient ground transport links to the city.

Comfort Lounges

Both airports offer a selection of airline and independent pay-per-use lounges for relaxation.

Currency Exchange

Banks and dedicated currency exchange counters are available for your financial needs.

Car Services

Car rental services with drivers can be arranged for private transportation needs.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Plan your departure with sufficient time for check-in, security, immigration, and customs. Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours for domestic flights from CTU/CKG.

Airport Timing

  • International Flights: THREE hours beforehand to departure.
  • Domestic Flights: TWO hours ahead of time to departure.
  • Train Departures (Neijiang North): 30-60 minutes prior to departure.

Fees & Facilities

No specific exit fees or taxes are separately levied for international air travel from China; these are generally included in your ticket price. Airports and train stations offer various facilities for departing travelers.

Available Services

  • Airport: shopping, dining, duty-free for international departures, Wi-Fi.
  • Train Stations: waiting rooms, dining options, small shops.
  • No additional exit fees on top of ticket price.

Flight Compensation Resources

Delayed Flights

If your flight is delayed, you may be entitled to compensation.

Canceled Flights

For canceled flights, check your rights for refunds or alternative travel.

AirHelp Service

AirHelp assists passengers in receiving a maximum OF €600 for delayed or canceled flights.

Smooth Travel Tip

Book high-speed train tickets to Neijiang North in advance, specifically during peak seasons, to secure seats and better rates.